The Livable Streets Initiative is an organization that is re-envisioning our cities, reversing decades of automobile-dominated planning and policy to create healthier, more sustainable urban environments, better prepared to meet the challenges of the new century. They have a network of great websites filled with information and videos about the movement and affecting change. LA.STREETSBLOG.ORG is local, up-to-the-minute information on the movement in Los Angeles. STREETFILMS.ORG is chock-full of great video from around the world on traffic, safety and transportation design.

For those who are trying to get a quick overview, StreetFilms has their 10 must see videos here.

What do you get when you cross a cross-walk with a speedbump?

How About Physically Separated Bike Lanes?

More Resources:

• Livable Streets Initiative
• StreetFilms
• LA.StreetsBlog.org
• SpeakUporelse.com
• A great post about the global campaigns against reckless driving

L.A. City Councilman, Bill Rosendahl brought representatives from the Los Angeles Department of Transportation to Wednesday’s meeting to discuss proposed engineering solutions. Assistant General manager, John Fisher, presented a variety of short and long term engineering solutions to the problems on Palisades Drive.

Fischer explained that the current roadway could be quickly (2-3 months) converted into a three lane “Traffic Calming Alternative” with a 5′ grooved strip in the middle to separate oncoming traffic (see 2nd illustration below). With more planning, engineering and budget approval (which would be significant), two other proposals were made with concrete and landscaped center divider areas, street lighting and bike lanes. The landscaped alternative would narrow the roadway to two lanes, with bike lanes in either direction. Fisher reported that the traffic volumes on Palisades Drive did not necessitate more than a two lane roadway, and fire captain Randy Beaty confirmed that the Fire Department and emergency vehicles would still be able to manage with a narrower and safer roadway.

The panel fielded questions regarding different solutions from the audience. Fisher was asked what it would take to change the road’s current classification as a Class II highway, and he said that “it was possible when the community plan came up for renewal”.

Next steps, the Safety Committee will meet with community leaders to discuss the proposals.